The World Health Organization (WHO) approved the first mpox test for emergency use, increasing access to medical tests. On Thursday, the WHO approved Abbott Laboratories’ PCR test, called the Alinity MPXV assay, which detects mpox virus DNA in skin swabs. This test is for use by trained laboratory personnel.
WHO is also reviewing three other mpox diagnostic tests and is negotiating with several companies to increase the availability of mpox test kits. Companies like Roche and Labcorp are already working to develop tests for mpox.
The Emergency Listing (EUL) process allows WHO to expedite the approval of unlicensed vaccines, treatments, and diagnostic tests during public emergencies. In August, the WHO asked manufacturers to submit their products for an emergency review, especially to help low-income countries access effective diagnostics.
As of January 2022, mpox cases have been reported in 121 countries, with 103,048 confirmed cases and 229 deaths by September 2024. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), at the epicenter of the disease, has received its first donations of mpox vaccines.
Mpox, formerly called monkeypox, is a viral infection that usually goes away on its own. Symptoms include fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that lasts two to three weeks. Although most people recover, the disease can be more severe in children and those with weakened immune systems.
A A new variant of mpox, clade Ib, is spreading very rapidly There are previous worries, including having sex. Scientists are still researching why this variant affects so many women and children, especially in Africa.
(With input from Reuters)